What makes a good portrait? Part 1

In my years taking photos of people and places I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that I would like to share.

I think a good photograph or image creates something within the person looking at it. Whether it’s the emotion the viewers feel or the questions that come up for them. This is obviously an individual perception since different people feel different emotions looking at the exact same image.

The first question I ask myself is: what is the purpose of the portrait shot and what emotion do I need to create within my subject, in order to have a great result and a happy client.?

The above main shot shows the versatility of images that you can achieve with one subject. Part 2 of this blog will have four more images of the same chap, with different ‘feels’. When using make-up and hair changes, mainly with women, the differences in the images of one subject can be created more easily, as with these examples

Lighting for me is paramount, whether the light is to be natural, reflective, or powered.

Light draws the viewer's eyes to where you want them to be, bearing in mind that humans look at light areas first and dark second. You are literally painting your picture with light, creating your story, which is exactly what photography is all about.

Make sure there are no flares of light, as this would take the attention away from your main subject. It is also important that the face is lit in a way that separates it from the background of the shot. This separation can also be achieved with the focus, depth of field chosen.

Emotion is on the same level of importance as lighting.

Somebody looking at a photograph will be able to 'see' whatever is in the head of the subject. Anything they are thinking about, whilst I am clicking the shutter, comes through. This is generally not a good thing! Most people feel uncomfortable in front of a camera, thinking about how they must look, how others think they look, etc. So I usually chat away during the whole session and get myself ready to find the shot I want. Sometimes this takes minutes and sometimes a lot longer.

How you want the photograph to be ‘read’ will determine the thoughts and emotions you need your subject to feel. In an advertising shot, for example, this could be absolutely anything. Like: horror! The power bill came in today!”

For a corporate shot, where there needs to be a feeling of confidence and happiness, I usually get them to think about a sentence like ‘have I got something for you!’ or ‘how can I help you?’

The position of the subject is also important, even a slight tilt to the head is noticed by the viewer. Smiles cannot be held, as they will soon turn fake! So it is important to be ready with your finger on the button and chat away with them until they find you funny!